Here are a few of our area favorites, all in one easy-to-scan format:
Baytowne New Year’s Eve Countdown
The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Miramar Beach | 6 p.m.–1 a.m.
Ring in 2026 with a high-energy celebration featuring fireworks at 8 p.m. and midnight, DJ music on the Baytowne Live stage from 6–8 p.m., and live music by the Heather Hayes Experience on the Events Plaza stage from 7 p.m.–1 a.m. The evening also includes kids’ activities, face painting, drone light shows and more. Guests under 21 must be accompanied by a legal guardian after 10 p.m. Free and open to the public.
New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise Aboard the Solaris
SunQuest Cruises, 8330 Mike Hayes Blvd., Miramar Beach | 8 p.m.–12:30 a.m. (check-in at 7 p.m.)
Celebrate in style aboard the 125-foot Solaris yacht with a four-course chef-inspired dinner, dancing, party favors and a champagne toast at midnight. Guests enjoy stunning views of Baytowne Wharf’s fireworks while cruising the bay. This event is 21+ only. Tickets are $200 per person; reservations are required online or by calling 850-650-2519. A 72-hour cancellation policy applies.
New Year’s Eve at North Beach Social
North Beach Social, Santa Rosa Beach | 6–9 p.m.
Northbeach.social
Celebrate early at this bayside favorite at the foot of the Hwy. 331 bridge. Enjoy live music from Matt’s Jazz Jam (6–8 p.m.), Chef Joyce’s famous paella, and $4 champagne specials all evening at North Beach Social and upstairs at Farm & Fire. No tickets required. A relaxed, festive way to welcome the New Year before midnight.
Seaside New Year’s Eve Celebration
Seaside Amphitheater, Seaside | 4–9 p.m.
A family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration in Seaside’s Central Square featuring arts and crafts, face painting, live music by Monsters of Yacht, and fireworks. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs for this free community event.
PCB New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop
Pier Park & Aaron Bessant Park, Panama City Beach | Begins at 4 p.m.
Panama City Beach’s signature New Year’s Eve celebration returns with live music, fireworks and the famous Beach Ball Drop. Festivities begin at 4 p.m., including the Kids FUN Zone at Aaron Bessant Park with free activities. An early ball drop and fireworks take place at 8 p.m., followed by the midnight Beach Ball Drop from Celebration Tower to ring in 2026. Free and open to all ages.
Alys Beach Noon Year’s Eve Celebration
Alys Beach Amphitheatre, Alys Beach | 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Celebrate early with this free, family-friendly Noon Year’s Eve event featuring live music by Kenny on the Keys, bubble machines, inflatable snow globes, complimentary children’s crafts, face painting and more. Perfect for young families and those who prefer daytime fun.
Old Florida Fish House New Year’s Eve Party
Old Florida Fish House, Santa Rosa Beach | 9:30 p.m.–midnight
oldfloridafishhouse.ticketspice.com/new-years-eve-2026
Ring in 2026 with a full band, handcrafted cocktails, champagne toast and a midnight balloon drop. Party tickets include party favors and a commemorative flute. VIP tickets ($149) include a three-course dinner and reserved table for the night. Tickets required; purchase online in advance.
LuLu’s Annual Noon Year’s Eve Celebration
LuLu’s Destin, Destin | 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
A festive, kid-friendly New Year’s celebration featuring face painting, live music and entertainment from Capt. Davy and his Pirates, plus family fun on the sandy beach. Kids enjoy their own countdown to Noon with a giant beach ball drop. Free to attend. LuLu’s closes at 3 p.m. on Dec. 31.
Hotel Effie Fire & Ice NYE Bash
Hotel Effie, Sandestin | 7 p.m.–1 a.m.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve on Hotel Effie’s rooftop with high-energy entertainment, vibrant cocktails, panoramic views and fireworks. The Fire & Ice Bash features an exclusive DJ performance by Brandon Gomes (MTV’s Siesta Key). Tickets are $65 plus tax and gratuity and must be purchased in advance.
